How Do I File for Divorce in Florida?

How Do I File for Divorce in Florida?

Are you a resident of Florida that needs to know about the legal process for divorce? Here is how you file for divorce in Florida.

Keyword(s): Divorce in Florida

Deciding on a divorce can be challenging for many reasons.

There’s the obvious emotional element. That’s always hard.

But there’s also the worrying about finances, custody, and proper filing, that can make the entire process a complete nightmare.

So, how are you planning on getting your divorce in Florida underway?

Today, we’ll be looking at how married couples in the Sunshine State start the legal ball rolling on their divorce proceedings.

You’ll learn the ins and outs of applying for what Florida courts call a “dissolution of marriage.”

Just remember: everybody needs a helping hand. Expert legal advice is always available. Get in touch with the Law Offices of James S. Cunha, P.A, today, for professional divorce and family law services in the state of Florida. Our expertise in divorce and family litigation means you’ll be fully represented, during this complicated time.

Getting Ready

As with any other important step in life, the first step to getting a divorce in Florida is being prepared.

You have to know the system, and what’s going to be expected of you.

Florida is divided up into combinations of different local counties, known as “counties”. The rules from one circuit to the next can differ, and each circuit has its own court. You should check your local website to make sure of the specific rules for yours.

The first step to getting a divorce in Florida, to prove your residency. Either you or your spouse must be a resident of the state for at least six months ahead of filing for the divorce. You can also be a member of the armed forces, and stationed in the state.

You begin by confirming the divorce in writing, by filling out a Petition for Dissolution. Both parties need to be in agreement, however, and if you aren’t, the court can order alternatives, such as counseling.

Typically, this is actually only used if the married couple is able to agree on all the elements of the divorce itself. There are issues that can draw out a divorce, such as disagreements over how to split the marital property, or custody of children.

In the case where a couple agrees to proceed without any dispute, a divorce can take place without having to litigate the case.

Don’t Misrepresent Yourself

On the topic of your affidavits, remember that falsifying any of your information during this process is a crime. The information you’re submitting is under oath. Lying about any of it is perjury, and you can be charged and even imprisoned for it.

Getting a Divorce in Florida, the Smart Way

Divorce can be a complicated process. Save yourself the headache of doing it on your own. Get yourself a lawyer who will prepare and file all of the required paperwork. A lawyer will also be able to guide you around the potential issues that may arise during a divorce.

If you plan ahead, though, you can get through it without having to sacrifice more of your assets or income than you need to.

If you’ve decided to apply for a divorce in Florida, there are steps to take to do it as efficiently as possible.

Still, every case is different, and, like we said at the top of this article, there are times where you’ll need a little help.